Defending champions Nigeria and Togo are gearing up for a thrilling showdown at the 2025 International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Africa West Africa Regional Championships, which will take place from July 16 to 19 at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall inside Lagos’ Teslim Balogun Stadium complex.
With anticipation building, Nigeria—widely regarded as the region’s most dominant force—will defend the women’s team title, which it successfully retained last year in Lomé, Togo. Meanwhile, Togo enters this year’s event as the reigning men’s team champion following their nail-biting 3-2 win over Nigeria in the 2024 final, a victory inspired by their home crowd.
In a statement released on Sunday, ITTF Africa confirmed both nations’ participation, alongside other competing countries such as Ghana, Benin Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Liberia, Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Niger Republic.
Star Players Return as Regional Rivals Reunite
This year’s tournament promises intense competition, particularly in the men’s singles category, where Nigeria’s top-ranked player, Matthew Kuti, aims to defend his crown. Kuti secured his maiden regional singles title in 2024, overpowering Côte d’Ivoire’s Oba Oba Kizito in a convincing 4-1 final victory.
If successful, Kuti will become the first male player in the championship’s history to win consecutive singles titles—a milestone that would further solidify his place among West Africa’s elite players.
On the women’s side, however, the title is wide open. The absence of reigning champion, Nigeria’s Hope Udoaka, creates an opening for a new champion to rise. Her non-participation adds an extra layer of unpredictability to the women’s singles event and paves the way for fresh faces to make their mark.
Championship Also Doubles as African Qualifier
Importantly, the 2025 regional championship serves as a qualification event for the African Championships scheduled to hold later this year in Rwanda. With the added stakes, teams are bringing their best talent and strategies to Lagos, aiming not only for regional bragging rights but also for a spot on the continental stage.
Nigeria, determined to reclaim the men’s team title after narrowly losing it to Togo in last year’s gripping final, will leverage both home advantage and the largest squad at the tournament. The team hopes that familiar territory and strong local support will help power them back to the top.
Rising Participation Signals Growth of the Sport
This year’s championship is already breaking records in terms of participation. Over ten countries have confirmed their attendance—a significant increase compared to previous editions, which typically featured no more than nine teams. Notably, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Niger Republic are returning to the fold after long absences, underscoring the event’s growing appeal and regional importance.
The rising participation level highlights the expanding reach of table tennis across West Africa and reflects the efforts of ITTF Africa to grow the sport through regional engagement and grassroots development.
Organisers and Officials Celebrate Return to Nigeria
Expressing his enthusiasm, Ferdinand Sonou, Vice President of ITTF Africa West Region, shared his excitement about the return of the regional tournament to Nigeria.
“I’m absolutely thrilled that we’re back in Nigeria for the championships,” Sonou stated. “This country has always been a favorite destination for teams because of its hospitality and passion for table tennis.”
He continued, “Lagos, in particular, has a strong legacy of hosting international events. Teams always look forward to competing here. This event also marks the beginning of a packed international calendar for Lagos, and I believe we’ll see both rising stars and our region’s best talents battle it out.”
Sonou also commended the unwavering leadership of ITTF Africa President Wahid Enitan Oshodi. He credited Oshodi’s support for the growth of the sport across West Africa and the increasing participation in regional competitions.
Expect Fireworks as Nigeria Looks to Regain Dominance
As the countdown begins, the spotlight now shifts to Nigeria. Known for its dominance in both men’s and women’s table tennis in the region, the host nation faces tremendous pressure and expectations. However, with home fans set to fill the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall and top players in peak form, Nigeria remains confident in its ability to reclaim lost glory.
Meanwhile, Togo, Ghana, Benin, and other countries arrive in Lagos with their own ambitions, determined to make their mark and challenge Nigeria’s supremacy.
The 2025 ITTF Africa West Africa Championships promise four days of electrifying matches, fierce rivalries, and outstanding athletic performance. For fans, athletes, and officials alike, all signs point to one of the most competitive and exciting editions yet.
